Definition

1. Noun:
   • A major Hindu philosophical system: Vedanta is one of the six orthodox (astika) schools of Indian philosophy. It is based primarily on the teachings found in the Upanishads, which are considered the concluding portions of the Vedic scriptures, and emphasizes knowledge (jnana) as the path to liberation (moksha).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The philosophy of Vedanta explores the relationship between the individual soul (atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).
  • She wrote her thesis on the non-dualistic (Advaita) school of Vedanta.

Advanced Usage

• In philosophical discourse: Vedanta is often discussed in contrast with other Indian philosophical systems, such as Mimamsa, which focuses on ritual and the earlier parts of the Vedas.
  • The debate between Vedanta and Mimamsa centers on the primary purpose of the sacred texts.

Variants and Related Words

• Advaita Vedanta (n): The non-dualistic school of Vedanta, most famously associated with the philosopher Adi Shankara, which teaches that the individual soul and Brahman are ultimately one.
• Dvaita Vedanta (n): The dualistic school of Vedanta, associated with Madhvacharya, which maintains a distinction between the individual soul and God.
• Vedantic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of Vedanta philosophy.
  • His approach was deeply Vedantic.

Synonyms

• Uttara Mimamsa: A traditional name for Vedanta, meaning "the latter inquiry," distinguishing it from Purva Mimamsa ("the former inquiry").

Related Terms (Contextual)

• Upanishads (n): The foundational texts for Vedanta philosophy.
• Brahman (n): In Vedanta, the ultimate, impersonal reality or world soul.
• Atman (n): The individual self or soul, a key concept in Vedanta.

Noun

1. (from the Sanskrit for `end of the Veda') one of six orthodox philosophical systems or viewpoints rooted in the Upanishads as opposed to Mimamsa which relies on the Vedas and Brahmanas